Spectacular Theater at Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario Canada

Canada is home to some of the best theater in North America, whether in Toronto, Stratford, or Niagara-on-the-Lake. I must admit, I'm partial to the theater offered at Niagara-on-the-Lake. Plus, I'm only six and a half hours from there. I've come to think of myself as a regular patron. Norm (my husband) and I purchase tickets in January to see plays in July and then engage in a major countdown through the months until showtime.

Niagara-on-the-Lake, at the juncture of the Niagara River and Lake Ontario, is the home of the Shaw Festival, as in George Bernard. A selection of plays by Shaw and his contemporaries such as Oscar Wilde, Somerset Maugham, Tennessee Williams, and others are performed during a season running from spring to fall. A musical is offered each season as well. This past summer we saw Shaw's Arms and the Man and The Philanderer, Williams' A Lovely Sunday in Creve Cour, and Cabaret.

The town is spectacular, a gardener's paradise. Meticulously planted parks abound surrounding everything in sight. The influence of English gardens is certainly prevalent.

A highly cultivated wine region has evolved in the Niagara area. A scattering of vineyards and wineries throughout the verdant country side is natural to the environment, given the climatic effect from the lake and river. Ice wines tend to be the specialty of the region. There's also a growing season for Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Chardonnay providing an increasing selection of delicious still wines. These wines get better and better each year.

Where there is good wine, good food is usually found. There are plenty of upscale restaurants with exceptional food and wine pairings. There's also great pub grub to be had--fish and chips,

full English breakfast fry ups. Other favorite eateries  are the numerous farm stands and markets offering fresh sandwiches, fruits, and pastries, relaxing  places to stop for lunch. 

You may have figured out by now that the Canadian side of Niagara Falls is here. It's about ten miles from town, down the Niagara Parkway. Each time I see the falls I find it breathtaking.

It is said that Winston Churchill called Niagara Parkway one of the prettiest drives in North America. Certainly can't argue with that. It's lovely.

What else, Canada Geese along the Niagara River

One of Numerous Wineries